LiHEAP New York

LIHEAP in New York

The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program provides funds to utility companies of approved applicants. In New York, the program takes applications between November 16 and March 16 for heating, cooling and crisis assistance. Applicants must meet income guidelines to apply for LIHEAP. The income guidelines are typically set as a percentage of the federal poverty level or state median income. Income guidelines may change each year. LIHEAP is a yearly program so applicants must apply and be approved under current guidelines to receive funding. Utility companies working with LIHEAP in New York include:

• Citizens Gas
• Consolidated Electric
• Central Hudson Gas and Electric
• Essex County
• KeySpan Energy
• Long Island Power Authority
• National Grid
• National Fuel Gas
• Niagara Mohawk Power Company
• New York State Electricity and Gas
• Orange and Rockland Utilities
• Rochester Gas and Electric Corporation

New York LIHEAP Assistance

LIHEAP in New York receives one of the largest funds in all the United States with more than $280 million in funding available in 2012. During the previous calendar year, more than 1.5 million households received support from LIHEAP – more than most other states. If your LIHEAP application is approved, you will receive between $50 and $700 for heating assistance. The average benefit is $537.

LIHEAP assistance is not the only benefit available for low-income households in New York. Utility companies often provide additional funds for low-income families.

LIHEAP Applications & How to Apply

In New York, the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance is available to answer questions about LIHEAP applications and eligibility. The office can be contacted by phone at 1-800-432-3009. Residents can also view the HEAP (Home Energy Assistance Program) document to find local offices where LIHEAP applications are accepted. It is best to contact your local office before showing up for an application as the office may take LIHEAP applications by appointment only. When you contact the office, ask for a list of documents required to apply for LIHEAP. You typically have to bring proof of family size, proof of income and a current utility bill.

LIHEAP Eligibility – Am I Eligible?

Eligibility for New York LIHEAP assistance is determined based on income. There are two income levels used for qualification. In New York, residents must fall at or below 60% of the state median income or 150% of the federal poverty line depending on which amount is greater during a given year.

60% of State Median Income

Additional family members account for a 3% increase in total allowable income. The state median income for 2012 was $82,531. 60% of $80,531 is $48,319. A family of six can earn 132% of $48,319 or $65,365. Add 3% for each additional family member. For instance, a family of seven can earn 135% of $48,319 or $65,231.

150% of Federal Poverty Limit

Add $5,730 to the total allowed income for a family of eight for each additional family member.